This research studied ways of improving the measurement of effectiveness in the Irish youth justice system. The research presents case study analyses of data collection processes used to measure effectiveness in seven youth justice systems – the states of Washington and Pennsylvania in the USA, The Netherlands, England and Wales, Sweden, Scotland, and Ireland. It describes the factors identified as important in shaping data collection processes and system measurement in youth justice.

The study utilised two data gathering methodologies. First, published governmental and available administrative ‘grey’ material and relevant research literature were assessed in order to identify and examine youth justice data and collection processes in systems. Second, interviews with youth justice experts in international systems and the Irish system gathered primary data. Experts were questioned about the operation of youth justice in their jurisdiction, particularly in terms of system effectiveness and its measurement, the data collection and reporting processes implemented, and the outcomes achieved for children and youth.